Gene Kilgore, 96, former long-time resident of Swayzee, died at 4:50 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2017, at Heritage Pointe in Warren. He was born in Point Isabel to the late Waldo E. and Ethel (Figgins) Kilgore. On April 25, 1943, Gene and Madeline Ruth Sprinkle exchanged wedding vows, and they just celebrated 74 years of marriage.
Gene was a 1939 Swayzee High School graduate, and he owned and operated Kilgore’s Market for 40 years (1943-1983). He was a long-time member of Swayzee United Methodist Church, charter member of Swayzee Lions Club, and former member of Swayzee Businessman’s Club. Gene was a great storyteller, and he loved time spent boating on Long Lake. He was very proud of his store and community, and he helped many people in the Swayzee area over the years.
He is survived by his children, William G. (Evelyn) Kilgore, Fort Wayne, Sandra K. (Kenneth) Castor, Grant, Alabama, and Janet F. (Jim) Corn, Delphi; 8 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; siblings, Max Kilgore, Orange City, Florida, and Joan Fox, Warren; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family will receive visitors from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 8, 2017, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee.
Gene’s funeral service will begin at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Robert Denney officiating. Burial will follow in Converse Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Swayzee UMC, 306 S. Washington St., Swayzee, IN 46986.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.